Abstract:
Nanocrystalline zirconosilicate with MFI framework structure
was hydrothermally synthesized by the addition of amphiphilic
organosilane in the synthesis composition of conventional zirconosilicate. Silver nanoparticles were supported on the surface
of nanocrystalline zirconosilicate. Catalyst exhibited exceptional
high activity in the epoxidation of olefins. Application of the
catalyst was extended in the green catalytic hydration reaction
of alkynes and nitriles. Hydration reaction using zirconosilicate
does not involve toxic metals or corrosive acidic condition. Bifunctional nature of the catalyst and optimum polarizability of
Zr present in the zeolite matrix are responsible for the high catalytic activity. Recycling and leaching experiments suggest that
the catalyst can be reused without significant loss in the activity. Nanocrystalline zirconosilicate offers several attractive features such as sustainable synthetic route, stability, high yields,
and recyclability
